Bringing a group?
Groups are welcome on VIP Tours! Please complete the form below and a member of our team will follow up with you.
We're open daily! View holiday hours
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46 million specimens. 60,000 live animals. One tour. Go behind the scenes and uncover the secrets of the California Academy of Sciences.
Did Claude really eat a ballet slipper? Why are there whale bones on our roof? Is there really a sea monster in our basement? At the Academy, there’s a story behind every species. Join a VIP Tour for an eye-opening look at what’s not on the public floor.
- View rare specimens in our scientific collections
- Prepare to be dazzled inside our private gem and mineral vault
- Explore off-limits areas atop our 2.5-acre Living Roof
- Skip the line at Osher Rainforest and the Shake House
- See stars from your reserved seats in Morrison Planetarium
- Enjoy 10% off at all Academy restaurants and stores
Tours are for ages 8+ and are limited to 12 guests. We recommend booking in advance, especially if you're visiting on a weekend.
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Please note: VIP Tour tickets do not include Daytime Admission. To purchase tour and admission tickets together, visit our Buy Tickets page, select Daytime Admission, and then add a VIP Tour to your cart before checkout.
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FAQ
How do I check in?
When you get to the Academy, please check in and let the ticketing agent know that you have a ticket for a VIP Tour. You'll then collect your lanyard and get ready to enjoy your perks. Please meet your guide five minutes before your scheduled tour time at the VIP Tour cart in the front lobby next to the T. rex skeleton.
Tours run on schedule, so please arrive early to check in and meet your guide at the tour cart. Refunds will not be given to no-shows or guests who arrive after the tour has departed.
Are VIP Tours accessible?
VIP Tours include stairs and unpaved paths. Comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for indoor and outdoor environments are strongly recommended. We can shift the tour route to avoid stairs if needed, no advance notice is required. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email us at experiences@calacademy.org or call us at 415-379-5854 to inquire about accessible tour options.
Service dogs are welcome at the Academy if providing assistance to individuals with disabilities, but a small number of areas, including the rainforest, research collections, and back-of-house, do remain off-limits. If you plan on bringing your service dog to the Academy or would like additional information, please call our Contact Center at 415-379-8000 and press 0 to speak with a representative.
How can I make my tour private?
Our team would be happy to assist you in booking a private VIP Tour. Please email us at experiences@calacademy.org or call us at 415-379-5854 to learn more.
Glide into winter with a flurry of fun (and 2 baby reindeer!) at our evening event for science fans of all ages.
Live a little at NightLife Plus! Enjoy two free drinks, special access, plus a snack and sweet discounts.
Experience the ultimate overnight museum adventure for kids. Don't snooze on this one—tickets sell out fast!
Birthdays at the Academy are wild! Celebrate with a party room, priority exhibit access, and more.
Contact us
Have questions about enhanced experiences at the Academy? We're here to help.
(415) 379-5854